[Pneumoretroperitoneum: diagnostic and therapeutic approach].

This retrospective study deals with etiology, paths of extension, radiological signs and treatment of pneumoretroperitoneum. The 15 cases presented were seen over a 10-year period. Etiology was infectious in 6 patients, traumatic in 5, and iatrogenic in 4. Treatment applied was surgical in 12 patients, the remaining 3 (who all had their pneumoretroperitoneum secondary to endoscopy) could be handled conservatively. Even though pneumoretroperitoneum is seldom encountered, it should be quickly recognized in order to apply prompt adequate therapy.